Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. The result is pain, inflamed skin, swelling and, sometimes, an infection. Ingrown toenails, which most commonly affect the big toe, can be painful and frustrating, but the good news is that there are several effective treatment options available to alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. Ingrown toenails often result from improper nail care, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or trauma to the toe. Cutting your nails too short or rounding the edges instead of trimming them straight across can also increase the risk. Find shoes that have a wider toe box, to avoid having the toes squeezed too tightly. If ingrown toenails develop frequently, custom orthotic devices also can help redistribute pressure on the toes. A podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics to treat or prevent infection. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may need to remove a portion of the ingrown toenail to promote healthy nail growth. If you are suffering from the pain of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
- Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
- Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
- Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
